Designing competitive nanostore networks for enhanced food accessibility : insights from a competitive facility location model

Background: Access to healthy food in emerging-economy cities is challenged by last-mile constraints and poor infrastructure. Aligned with the UN SDGs on Zero Hunger and Sustainable Cities, this study examines how a strategically located nanostores network can help close these gaps while fostering local resilience. Focusing on Colombia's Sabana Centro region, we designed a nanostore network that maximizes spatial coverage, proximity, and affordability. Methods: A competitive facility-location model combined with a discrete choice model captures consumer heterogeneity in price and location preferences. Results: Results show that locating nanostores in peripheral rather than central areas improves equity: the proposed network meets about 65,400 kg of weekly demand-51% fruit, 36% vegetables, 13% tubers-representing 16% of total regional demand and reaching underserved municipalities. This is notable given that existing nanostores already satisfy roughly 37% of household needs. Conclusions: By linking consumer behavior with sustainable spatial planning, the research offers both theoretical insight and practical tools for equitable distribution. Future work should evaluate supportive policies and supply chain innovations to secure nanostores' long-term viability and community impact.